The MTNA Professional Certification Program exists to improve the level of professionalism within the field of music teaching. It benefits the members of the profession itself, as well as the public who interacts with the professional. For the music teaching professional, certification provides prestige, recognition and the potential for student recruitment and increased earning power. For the public, certification helps readily identify competent music teachers in their communities.

Those interested in becoming a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music should begin the application process by completing and submitting the following materials.

1. Application form with appropriate fee
2. Copies of official college/university transcript(s)
3. Transcript Evaluation Form
4. Proficiency Examination Request Form, if needed
5. Performance Competency validation with one of the following, if needed:
   • MTNA Repertoire Selection Form and Performance Competency Verification Forms
   • MTNA Official Jury Evaluation Form
   • Letter from music teacher, signed and dated, with a list of repertoire studied and/or performed
6. Three Letters of Reference Forms and letters
7. Teaching Experience Evaluation form with documentation

Once your application is approved, a candidate will have the option of taking the Certification Examination, submitting a Portfolio or obtaining Administrative Verification.

Beginning in 2009, teachers must renew their certification annually.  The yearly renewal will begin at the end of the certified teacher's five year renewal cycle and continue every year thereafter. Those officially certified on or after September 1 will not pay a renewal fee the first year and are not required to submit any documentation of points.